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Green Valley Library #10
Checking You Out
Lois Washington is at the end of her rope. Struggling as a single mother in an apartment the size of a closet is not the New York City adventure she dreamed of in her starry-eyed youth. When her job goes on the chopping block, she is ready for a major life change. Joining her best friend in Tennessee to become the newest employee at the Green Valley Public Library isn't exactly where she thought life would take her, but she feels up for the challenge. Only this relocation comes with more than she bargained for.
Norman Grant has had a string of online dating disasters back in Florida. Dealing with chronic pain, he's concluded that finding a woman who is understanding about his war wounds just isn't in the cards. That is, until he becomes quite taken with the single mother who's also a new arrival in Green Valley. The catch? Things are not quite what they seem.
When the past and present collide, Norman and Lois must face painful reminders from their youth. Now, at twenty-seven, Norman's about to find out just how deeply the wounds he left behind cut.
'Checking You Out’ is a full-length contemporary romance and can be read as a standalone. Book #10 in the Green Valley Library series, Green Valley Chronicles, Penny Reid Book Universe
Norman Grant has had a string of online dating disasters back in Florida. Dealing with chronic pain, he's concluded that finding a woman who is understanding about his war wounds just isn't in the cards. That is, until he becomes quite taken with the single mother who's also a new arrival in Green Valley. The catch? Things are not quite what they seem.
When the past and present collide, Norman and Lois must face painful reminders from their youth. Now, at twenty-seven, Norman's about to find out just how deeply the wounds he left behind cut.
'Checking You Out’ is a full-length contemporary romance and can be read as a standalone. Book #10 in the Green Valley Library series, Green Valley Chronicles, Penny Reid Book Universe
222 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 21, 2022
197 people are currently reading
2658 people want to read
About the author
Ann Whynot
4 books122 followersAnn Whynot is pursuing her lifelong dream of becoming a published author. She is a voracious reader and book collector, and used book stores are her kryptonite. She also is passionate about video games, crafting, baking, laughter, and travel, especially to Sweden. She lives with her family and two cats on the Canadian east coast, and is inspired by both the forest and sea.
FOLLOW ANN:
Instagram: www.instagram.com/ann.whynot
Facebook: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567...
Website: www.annwhynot.com
Last Release:
April 19, 2022: Checking You Out, Green Valley Library Series, Penny Reid Universe
Next Up:
The Magnificent Mind of Olly McLeod (Coming in 2025)
FOLLOW ANN:
Instagram: www.instagram.com/ann.whynot
Facebook: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567...
Website: www.annwhynot.com
Last Release:
April 19, 2022: Checking You Out, Green Valley Library Series, Penny Reid Universe
Next Up:
The Magnificent Mind of Olly McLeod (Coming in 2025)
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April 21, 2022
★★NOW IN KU!★★
WooHOO! Smartypants Romance author Ann Whynot is BACK with the next book in the Green Valley Library series. 'Checking You Out' features a really stellar second-chance romance. This book has ALL the feels. All. Of. Them. I can't wait for you to read it. It's LIVE in Kindle Unlimited TODAY! Happy Release Day, Ann!
★★Grab your copy TODAY!★★
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3s5NnaR
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/3JHkCY0
Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/3BtU6P4
Amazon AU: https://amzn.to/3uXA9yI
★ ★ BLURB ★ ★
Lois Washington is at the end of her rope. Struggling as a single mother in an apartment the size of a closet is not the New York City adventure she dreamed of in her starry-eyed youth. When her job goes on the chopping block, she is ready for a major life change. Joining her best friend in Tennessee to become the newest employee at the Green Valley Public Library isn’t exactly where she thought life would take her, but she feels up for the challenge. Only this relocation comes with more than she bargained for.
Norman Grant has had a string of online dating disasters back in Florida. Dealing with chronic pain, he’s concluded that finding a woman who is understanding about his war wounds just isn’t in the cards. That is, until he becomes quite taken with the single mother who’s also a new arrival in Green Valley. The catch? Things are not quite what they seem.
When the past and present collide, Norman and Lois must face painful reminders from their youth. Now, at twenty-seven, Norman’s about to find out just how deeply the wounds he left behind cut.
‘Checking You Out’ is a full-length contemporary romance and can be read as a standalone. Book #10 in the Green Valley Library series, Green Valley Chronicles, Penny Reid Book Universe
June 3, 2022
Favorite Quotes:
I had to stop the train my thoughts were on right the hell now or I would be going places I couldn’t handle, especially at this moment. I had this tendency to do what, according to Dr. Google— the only doctor I could afford for myself, most of the time— was called indulging in apocalyptic thinking. Once I got started, I could be thinking about a glass half empty and end up picturing the glass exploding, sending shards flying everywhere and blinding a pack of nuns.
Lois and Max shared a look, like they were communicating telepathically as I’ve often thought female best friends could do through some kind of sorcery...
My Review:
This was a fun and lively second chance romance/small-town/southern read that covered a lot of ground with common and uncommon issues, disabilities, and foibles that make navigating our world a bit trickier for some. Their challenges were well-integrated and smoothly featured with thoughtful insights as well as clever and amusing humor within comfortable and easy-to-follow storylines. The characters were easily accessible, endearing, admirable, and the type of well-intentioned and hard-working people I’d like to know and have in my life. The writing style and story threads scrolled smoothly through my gray matter and were well-paced, engaging, and entertaining. I am enjoying this series as well as this author's work and am eager to pick up the next offering.
I had to stop the train my thoughts were on right the hell now or I would be going places I couldn’t handle, especially at this moment. I had this tendency to do what, according to Dr. Google— the only doctor I could afford for myself, most of the time— was called indulging in apocalyptic thinking. Once I got started, I could be thinking about a glass half empty and end up picturing the glass exploding, sending shards flying everywhere and blinding a pack of nuns.
Lois and Max shared a look, like they were communicating telepathically as I’ve often thought female best friends could do through some kind of sorcery...
My Review:
This was a fun and lively second chance romance/small-town/southern read that covered a lot of ground with common and uncommon issues, disabilities, and foibles that make navigating our world a bit trickier for some. Their challenges were well-integrated and smoothly featured with thoughtful insights as well as clever and amusing humor within comfortable and easy-to-follow storylines. The characters were easily accessible, endearing, admirable, and the type of well-intentioned and hard-working people I’d like to know and have in my life. The writing style and story threads scrolled smoothly through my gray matter and were well-paced, engaging, and entertaining. I am enjoying this series as well as this author's work and am eager to pick up the next offering.
April 19, 2022
Checking you out is an easy-to-read romance, but with flaws that spoil the reading.
The plot itself is interesting and had potential, but it was not fully exploited.
Lois arrives in Green Valley with her adorable daughter, she is hosted by the mother of her friend Maxine. When she was younger she played an online game with Maxine but also with Norman and Jonathan. In love with Norman even though she had never met him in the real world, she was supposed to move in with him but he abandoned her at the last minute.
What I found quite aberrant is that Maxine apparently never mentioned Gamer Lois to Norman and Jonathan. She told them about Lois, the close friend who is moving to her small town, to her mother's house, without ever telling them that they already know her, that she's their old gamer friend.
Lois recognizes Norman, he does not recognize her. She's angry for what he did to her when they were young, and there I was expecting a lot of tension and exciting verbal battles but no, everything is quickly forgotten. We move directly to a new relationship that is too easy, with a Lois who does not leave him grovel as he should. Ok, he had reasons to join the army but he lied to her and gave her hope for a future together for months!
Then the author adds a plot with the ex of Lois and an "accident" which frankly was unnecessary.
That said, my reading was enjoyable because Norman is a physically wounded hero, wounded for life. His story and his daily sufferings make him very touching. Lois is a likeable character who reacts perfectly to Norman's worries, but I didn't find her more extraordinary than that. In general, I preferred the couple Maxine and Jonathan as well as their story.
I really liked Lois' daughter and Maxine's mother.
In short, this novel is pleasant without being unforgettable.
The plot itself is interesting and had potential, but it was not fully exploited.
Lois arrives in Green Valley with her adorable daughter, she is hosted by the mother of her friend Maxine. When she was younger she played an online game with Maxine but also with Norman and Jonathan. In love with Norman even though she had never met him in the real world, she was supposed to move in with him but he abandoned her at the last minute.
What I found quite aberrant is that Maxine apparently never mentioned Gamer Lois to Norman and Jonathan. She told them about Lois, the close friend who is moving to her small town, to her mother's house, without ever telling them that they already know her, that she's their old gamer friend.
Lois recognizes Norman, he does not recognize her. She's angry for what he did to her when they were young, and there I was expecting a lot of tension and exciting verbal battles but no, everything is quickly forgotten. We move directly to a new relationship that is too easy, with a Lois who does not leave him grovel as he should. Ok, he had reasons to join the army but he lied to her and gave her hope for a future together for months!
Then the author adds a plot with the ex of Lois and an "accident" which frankly was unnecessary.
That said, my reading was enjoyable because Norman is a physically wounded hero, wounded for life. His story and his daily sufferings make him very touching. Lois is a likeable character who reacts perfectly to Norman's worries, but I didn't find her more extraordinary than that. In general, I preferred the couple Maxine and Jonathan as well as their story.
I really liked Lois' daughter and Maxine's mother.
In short, this novel is pleasant without being unforgettable.
May 3, 2022
We're back at the Green Valley Library and we have ourselves a second chance at romance! (I enjoy both the GVL and second chance romances, so this works out nicely for me.)
This time around, we have recent Green Valley transplants Lois and Norman. Lois is Max's best friend and she's trying to get back on her feet after a...well, I'm going to say after a string of bad luck. A single mom with few ties and one adorable kiddo, she's had more than a few knocks lately. Starting over in Green Valley feels right to her. The only thing throwing her for a loop is Norman, the guy she couldn't forget.
As for Norm, he had his reasons for acting the way he did when he was younger. He's a different man now, though, and he's determined to show Lois he's the one for her. He's a little awkward, but he wants his chance to make a family with both Lois and her daughter.
We get to see a few familiar faces, spend some time in the library, experience a little holiday magic, and watch two people rekindle something they both thought they'd lost. Good stuff!
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
This time around, we have recent Green Valley transplants Lois and Norman. Lois is Max's best friend and she's trying to get back on her feet after a...well, I'm going to say after a string of bad luck. A single mom with few ties and one adorable kiddo, she's had more than a few knocks lately. Starting over in Green Valley feels right to her. The only thing throwing her for a loop is Norman, the guy she couldn't forget.
As for Norm, he had his reasons for acting the way he did when he was younger. He's a different man now, though, and he's determined to show Lois he's the one for her. He's a little awkward, but he wants his chance to make a family with both Lois and her daughter.
We get to see a few familiar faces, spend some time in the library, experience a little holiday magic, and watch two people rekindle something they both thought they'd lost. Good stuff!
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
April 17, 2022
[I received a digital arc for an honest review]
Checking You Out by Ann Whynot is the tenth stand alone in the Green Valley Library series of the Green Valley Chronicles / Penny Reid Universe. I have read of a few of the books in the series but not all of them and this is my first time reading author Ann Whynot.
As high school seniors, Lois and Norman were long distance gamer friends who feel head over heels in love over the internet. They had grand plans of moving to New York after graduation , her from Nebraska and him from Florida. Those plans didn't happen the way Lois dreamed when Norman breaks her heart over email and enlists in the army. Now Ten years later, single mother Lois has moved to Green Valley for a fresh start and is shocked to discover Norman has decided to do the same. She has changed so much he doesn't even recognize her but when he makes the connection, he decides to stop at nothing to make up for hurting her in the past. Even if his own limitations from an injury while serving, try to stop him. Lois has to learn to trust Norman again and decide if he's a match for not only who she is now but also her daughter.
Checking You Out started strong for me. A single mother who gets a second chance at her first love. A wounded vet who doesn't let his disabilities destroy his positive outlook on life. Let's not leave out all the gaming goodness and nerdy references. However, somewhere along the way the story lost its shine for me. The romance was very low steam and I never felt a real spark between Lois and Norman. It was very drawn out and then when they finally do take that step it's all behind closed doors. Then we have Norman who I wanted to love, I really did, he was a gentleman and sweet and great with kids. Yet he felt very immature and a bit too goofy in a way that was unappealing. I did not like the nickname he had for Lois' , I completely got the Kill Bill reference but it wasn't cute. Then there was the whole drama with Lois' ex-husband who had a lot of nerve to even suggest of attempting full custody of their child, he made his decisions and needed to live with them.
Sadly, I don't think I meshed well with Ann Whynot's writing style. Much of the conversations felt rigid and I never formed any bonds with the characters. Overall, Checking You Out was a sweet low steam second chance romance set during the holiday season with tree decorating, date nights, bedtime stories, online gaming and found family.
Checking You Out by Ann Whynot is the tenth stand alone in the Green Valley Library series of the Green Valley Chronicles / Penny Reid Universe. I have read of a few of the books in the series but not all of them and this is my first time reading author Ann Whynot.
As high school seniors, Lois and Norman were long distance gamer friends who feel head over heels in love over the internet. They had grand plans of moving to New York after graduation , her from Nebraska and him from Florida. Those plans didn't happen the way Lois dreamed when Norman breaks her heart over email and enlists in the army. Now Ten years later, single mother Lois has moved to Green Valley for a fresh start and is shocked to discover Norman has decided to do the same. She has changed so much he doesn't even recognize her but when he makes the connection, he decides to stop at nothing to make up for hurting her in the past. Even if his own limitations from an injury while serving, try to stop him. Lois has to learn to trust Norman again and decide if he's a match for not only who she is now but also her daughter.
Checking You Out started strong for me. A single mother who gets a second chance at her first love. A wounded vet who doesn't let his disabilities destroy his positive outlook on life. Let's not leave out all the gaming goodness and nerdy references. However, somewhere along the way the story lost its shine for me. The romance was very low steam and I never felt a real spark between Lois and Norman. It was very drawn out and then when they finally do take that step it's all behind closed doors. Then we have Norman who I wanted to love, I really did, he was a gentleman and sweet and great with kids. Yet he felt very immature and a bit too goofy in a way that was unappealing. I did not like the nickname he had for Lois' , I completely got the Kill Bill reference but it wasn't cute. Then there was the whole drama with Lois' ex-husband who had a lot of nerve to even suggest of attempting full custody of their child, he made his decisions and needed to live with them.
Sadly, I don't think I meshed well with Ann Whynot's writing style. Much of the conversations felt rigid and I never formed any bonds with the characters. Overall, Checking You Out was a sweet low steam second chance romance set during the holiday season with tree decorating, date nights, bedtime stories, online gaming and found family.
April 3, 2022
I loved her debut story Dewey belong together and couldn’t wait to read this one after seeing the cover.
Great writing as expected, amazing humor and heart throughout the story, great character development.
Norman has a lot of wounds to close (both visible and not so visible to the open eye) and Lois will change her life in a matter of weeks.
They collide when least expected and their banter and friendship made me want to be there with them at all times and high fives some scenes.
Again, the author has done an amazing job of showing how much some disabilities are misunderstood and that they don’t make anyone that lives with them any lesser.
Checking you out is a romance that just fills my heart with hope. Hope that no matter how you live your life, there's always someone out there to love and be loved.
Arc review
Great writing as expected, amazing humor and heart throughout the story, great character development.
Norman has a lot of wounds to close (both visible and not so visible to the open eye) and Lois will change her life in a matter of weeks.
They collide when least expected and their banter and friendship made me want to be there with them at all times and high fives some scenes.
Again, the author has done an amazing job of showing how much some disabilities are misunderstood and that they don’t make anyone that lives with them any lesser.
Checking you out is a romance that just fills my heart with hope. Hope that no matter how you live your life, there's always someone out there to love and be loved.
Arc review
April 19, 2022
De tous les livres du lot de cette année, je crois que c'est celui qui m'a le moins emballé et que j'ai trouvé un poil ennuyeux et convenu -_- (Désolée Ann !). Aussi, je comprend pas trop pourquoi ce livre et le précédent font partie d'une série intitulé "Green Valley Librairy", alors certes le job des héroïnes est à la bibliothèque, mais bon à part, y'a pas vraiment de place spéciale réservée à cette bibliothèque. Ces deux livres auraient pu constituer une série unique autour du point commun entre tous les personnages : le jeu de MMRPG Magecraft où ils se sont tous rencontrés et qui tient une place de choix dans l'intrigue... bref.
Cette romance a zéro suspense : on part quand même sur une intrigue qui aurait pu durer un peu plus longtemps, à savoir que Lois et Norman se connaissent virtuellement depuis leur adolescence, ils avaient prévu de se voir après le lycée et commencer leurs études supérieur ensemble mais Norman a brisé le coeur de Lois au dernier moment en ne venant pas, ils se retrouvent 10 ans plus tard dans la vraie vie cette fois, Lois le reconnait, mais Norman non (faut dire qu'elle a bien changé de look depuis ses 16 ans). On aurait pu avoir une espèce de tension autour de Norman découvrant la vérité, mais ce détail est balayé dès les premiers chapitres, bon bah ça, c'est fait xD
L'intrigue est donc autour d'une seconde chance pour Norman de gagner le coeur de Lois (spoiler alert : ça sera pas super difficile), et pour Lois d'avoir confiance que Norman ne l'abandonnera pas une 2e fois, surtout qu'elle n'est plus toute seule dans cette affaire : elle a une fille de 6 ans nommé Elsa.
J'ai eu l'impression que l'auteur, sachant son histoire un peu moyenne, nous a rajouté un problème de garde d'enfant avec le père biologique d'Elsa, problème résolu aussi vite qu'il est apparut, et la catastrophe de la fin était-elle vraiment nécessaire ? Pas sûre.
Il y a quand même de jolies choses dans ce livre : revoir Max et Jonathan, le premier couple de gamer, j'avais beaucoup aimé leur histoire ♥ ; la complicité des jeunes avec Rose (la maman de Max qui héberge Lois et Elsa) et ce petit groupe devenant une famille qui se choisi ; le traitement du handicap de Norman (une grave blessure pendant son service militaire qui lui donne des douleurs et le contraint à marcher avec une canne), la façon dont il se perçoit et dont les autres le perçoivent.
Voilà, ce livre était bien mais sans plus, trop prévisible et trop guimauve peut-être.
************
Of all the books in this year's bundle, I think this was the one that I was least excited about and found a bit boring and conventional -_- (Sorry Ann!). Also, I don't really understand why this book and the previous one are part of a series called "Green Valley Library", yes the heroines' job is in the library, but apart from that, there's not really a special place reserved for this library. These two books could have been a unique series around the common point between all the characters : the MMRPG game Magecraft where they all met and which holds a place of choice in the plot... Anyway.
This romance has zero suspense : we have a plot that could have lasted a little longer, namely that Lois and Norman have known each other virtually since their teen years, they had planned to see each other after high school and start college together but Norman broke Lois' heart at the last moment by not coming, they meet again 10 years later in real life this time, Lois recognizes him, but Norman doesn't (I must say that her look has changed a lot since). We could have had some kind of tension about Norman discovering the truth, but this detail is swept away in the first chapters, well you got it xD
The plot is therefore around a second chance for Norman to win Lois' heart (spoiler alert : it won't be too difficult), and for Lois to trust that Norman won't abandon her a second time, especially since she is no longer alone : she has a 6-year-old daughter named Elsa.
I had the impression that the author, knowing her story was somewhat average, added a child custody problem with Elsa's biological father, a problem solved as quickly as it appeared, and was the disaster of the end really necessary? Not sure.
There are still some nice things in this book : seeing Max and Jonathan again, the first gamer couple, I really liked their story ♥ ; the complicity of the young people with Rose (Max's mother who accomodate Lois and Elsa) and this small group becoming a family that chooses itself ; the treatment of Norman's disability (a serious injury during his military service which gives him pain and forces him to walk with a cane), the way he perceives himself and how others perceive him.
Here, this book was good but nothing more, too predictable and too sappy perhaps.
-Read as an ARC-
Cette romance a zéro suspense : on part quand même sur une intrigue qui aurait pu durer un peu plus longtemps, à savoir que Lois et Norman se connaissent virtuellement depuis leur adolescence, ils avaient prévu de se voir après le lycée et commencer leurs études supérieur ensemble mais Norman a brisé le coeur de Lois au dernier moment en ne venant pas, ils se retrouvent 10 ans plus tard dans la vraie vie cette fois, Lois le reconnait, mais Norman non (faut dire qu'elle a bien changé de look depuis ses 16 ans). On aurait pu avoir une espèce de tension autour de Norman découvrant la vérité, mais ce détail est balayé dès les premiers chapitres, bon bah ça, c'est fait xD
L'intrigue est donc autour d'une seconde chance pour Norman de gagner le coeur de Lois (spoiler alert : ça sera pas super difficile), et pour Lois d'avoir confiance que Norman ne l'abandonnera pas une 2e fois, surtout qu'elle n'est plus toute seule dans cette affaire : elle a une fille de 6 ans nommé Elsa.
J'ai eu l'impression que l'auteur, sachant son histoire un peu moyenne, nous a rajouté un problème de garde d'enfant avec le père biologique d'Elsa, problème résolu aussi vite qu'il est apparut, et la catastrophe de la fin était-elle vraiment nécessaire ? Pas sûre.
Il y a quand même de jolies choses dans ce livre : revoir Max et Jonathan, le premier couple de gamer, j'avais beaucoup aimé leur histoire ♥ ; la complicité des jeunes avec Rose (la maman de Max qui héberge Lois et Elsa) et ce petit groupe devenant une famille qui se choisi ; le traitement du handicap de Norman (une grave blessure pendant son service militaire qui lui donne des douleurs et le contraint à marcher avec une canne), la façon dont il se perçoit et dont les autres le perçoivent.
Voilà, ce livre était bien mais sans plus, trop prévisible et trop guimauve peut-être.
************
Of all the books in this year's bundle, I think this was the one that I was least excited about and found a bit boring and conventional -_- (Sorry Ann!). Also, I don't really understand why this book and the previous one are part of a series called "Green Valley Library", yes the heroines' job is in the library, but apart from that, there's not really a special place reserved for this library. These two books could have been a unique series around the common point between all the characters : the MMRPG game Magecraft where they all met and which holds a place of choice in the plot... Anyway.
This romance has zero suspense : we have a plot that could have lasted a little longer, namely that Lois and Norman have known each other virtually since their teen years, they had planned to see each other after high school and start college together but Norman broke Lois' heart at the last moment by not coming, they meet again 10 years later in real life this time, Lois recognizes him, but Norman doesn't (I must say that her look has changed a lot since). We could have had some kind of tension about Norman discovering the truth, but this detail is swept away in the first chapters, well you got it xD
The plot is therefore around a second chance for Norman to win Lois' heart (spoiler alert : it won't be too difficult), and for Lois to trust that Norman won't abandon her a second time, especially since she is no longer alone : she has a 6-year-old daughter named Elsa.
I had the impression that the author, knowing her story was somewhat average, added a child custody problem with Elsa's biological father, a problem solved as quickly as it appeared, and was the disaster of the end really necessary? Not sure.
There are still some nice things in this book : seeing Max and Jonathan again, the first gamer couple, I really liked their story ♥ ; the complicity of the young people with Rose (Max's mother who accomodate Lois and Elsa) and this small group becoming a family that chooses itself ; the treatment of Norman's disability (a serious injury during his military service which gives him pain and forces him to walk with a cane), the way he perceives himself and how others perceive him.
Here, this book was good but nothing more, too predictable and too sappy perhaps.
-Read as an ARC-
April 6, 2022
Checking You Out: Green Valley Library Book #10 by Ann Whynot
4.5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐🌟
‘…“Do you usually sleep with a shirt on? Because you can take it off if you want. It would be nice to cuddle, skin to skin.” And with that, I slipped out of my camisole and tossed it onto the floor, leaving my breasts bared to him. He groaned and quickly got with the program by likewise sending his shirt sailing.
I smiled and made an appreciative noise as I stared at his chest, and he chewed his lower lip as he looked at my breasts, and the air felt thick between us. I felt ready to pounce, and then I remembered his back. “Hey,” I said, gently pushing his left shoulder until he was flat on his back. “Stay on that heating pad, okay?” I don’t want you to hurt yourself because I whipped out my tits.”
“But what a way to get hurt,” he said, flashing an impish grin.’
Second-chance romance stories, and all that they entail, are some of my favourite love stories. The initial meet-cute, the intense connection shared, the big event that ultimately sees our darling couple estranged for a few chapters, the brooding and musing and yearning. It all combines to give us a decadent and dramatic beginning to the protagonists' epic journey back into one another’s arms. I was delighted to discover that this was the case with “Checking You Out”. We get a touch of enticing mystery in the ‘before’, and an emotive and exquisite journey through the ‘now’. There's even a smidgen of enemies to lovers to sweeten the deal.
Ann Whynot has managed to deliver an unconventional, very sweet, sometimes darkly comical and definitely inspirational, love story. The romance, desire and physicality that was lacking in the first book for me, is very apparent here. There is much more heat, more charm, more hunger. When I’m getting lost in a romance story, I need to be able to feel that passion whipping up, building and pouring out through the author’s words, and I’m so glad we got that with Norman and Lois.
I loved how Norman’s disabilities were handled, with great sensitivity and realism. Equally, it was wonderful to witness how Lois supported, encouraged and soothed him. Portraying how it should be between two people who love each other fiercely. A safe haven when times aren’t always plain sailing, but also showcasing that just because you have an injury or disability, that’s not all you are. It does not define you. You are still passionate, impetuous, funny, sexy and so very worthy of being loved and loving someone else in return. That is what Ann Whynot does so well here. She gives readers insight, hope and the ability to be compassionate and understanding, whilst also making it funny and endearing. Not to mention sexy.
The character development was most impressive for me. Something that really shone throughout the book. Lois and Norm went from two young gamers with their lives ahead of them, full of wishes and dreams and secrets, to two adults, still holding onto those dreams, but with a few more weighty issues to contend with.
I really enjoyed this story, especially the zippy dialogue between our hero and heroine. I was literally laughing out loud at certain lines and interactions (involving a dropped towel). It definitely had its serious moments but it also felt lovely and light-hearted.
4.5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐🌟
‘…“Do you usually sleep with a shirt on? Because you can take it off if you want. It would be nice to cuddle, skin to skin.” And with that, I slipped out of my camisole and tossed it onto the floor, leaving my breasts bared to him. He groaned and quickly got with the program by likewise sending his shirt sailing.
I smiled and made an appreciative noise as I stared at his chest, and he chewed his lower lip as he looked at my breasts, and the air felt thick between us. I felt ready to pounce, and then I remembered his back. “Hey,” I said, gently pushing his left shoulder until he was flat on his back. “Stay on that heating pad, okay?” I don’t want you to hurt yourself because I whipped out my tits.”
“But what a way to get hurt,” he said, flashing an impish grin.’
Second-chance romance stories, and all that they entail, are some of my favourite love stories. The initial meet-cute, the intense connection shared, the big event that ultimately sees our darling couple estranged for a few chapters, the brooding and musing and yearning. It all combines to give us a decadent and dramatic beginning to the protagonists' epic journey back into one another’s arms. I was delighted to discover that this was the case with “Checking You Out”. We get a touch of enticing mystery in the ‘before’, and an emotive and exquisite journey through the ‘now’. There's even a smidgen of enemies to lovers to sweeten the deal.
Ann Whynot has managed to deliver an unconventional, very sweet, sometimes darkly comical and definitely inspirational, love story. The romance, desire and physicality that was lacking in the first book for me, is very apparent here. There is much more heat, more charm, more hunger. When I’m getting lost in a romance story, I need to be able to feel that passion whipping up, building and pouring out through the author’s words, and I’m so glad we got that with Norman and Lois.
I loved how Norman’s disabilities were handled, with great sensitivity and realism. Equally, it was wonderful to witness how Lois supported, encouraged and soothed him. Portraying how it should be between two people who love each other fiercely. A safe haven when times aren’t always plain sailing, but also showcasing that just because you have an injury or disability, that’s not all you are. It does not define you. You are still passionate, impetuous, funny, sexy and so very worthy of being loved and loving someone else in return. That is what Ann Whynot does so well here. She gives readers insight, hope and the ability to be compassionate and understanding, whilst also making it funny and endearing. Not to mention sexy.
The character development was most impressive for me. Something that really shone throughout the book. Lois and Norm went from two young gamers with their lives ahead of them, full of wishes and dreams and secrets, to two adults, still holding onto those dreams, but with a few more weighty issues to contend with.
I really enjoyed this story, especially the zippy dialogue between our hero and heroine. I was literally laughing out loud at certain lines and interactions (involving a dropped towel). It definitely had its serious moments but it also felt lovely and light-hearted.
April 26, 2022
Overall Grade: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Ann Whynot’s sophomore SmartyPants Romance tome, Checking You Out, returns us to the world of Magecraft. What I love about this story and its predecessor, Dewey Belong Together, is its insistence on highlighting nerdy, gender-fluid characters.
In this story, we meet Lois, the best friend of her FMC in DBT, Max, and a single mother who has moved to Green Valley, hoping to create a better life for her daughter away from the busyness of New York City. In Dewey Belong Together, we meet Norman, the best friend and business partner of that book’s MMC. Jonathan and Norman are also relocating to Green Valley, so that Jonathan and Max can be together. Interestingly enough, Norman and Lois have a past. As teens, they met through a gaming platform and fell in love. They made plans to move to New York City together; however, Norman broke off their relationship. It’s been a decade since they’ve talked or seen each other, and they reconnect in Green Valley, to find out that they are still madly attracted to each other. Norman and Lois waste no time in falling for each other. However, Lois’s life is complicated by an ex-husband/father of her child who lives in France. Additionally, Norman isn’t sure about taking on the role of parenting Lois’s precious daughter. When a tragedy causes her life to hang in the balance, their priorities right themselves, and they find their eventual happy ending.
It’s rather easy to like Lois and Norman. They are likable characters, albeit they are rather mild. Both of them have suffered past traumas, which cause them to both cling to each other AND push each other away. My struggle with Checking You Out is the almost inauspicious nature of their journey. There are clearly plot points that raise the tenor of their coupling, moments when you fear for their happy ending. Yet, for the most part, Whynot lays out their story so staidly that I found myself losing interest in them from time to time. Thankfully, the ancillary characters of Max and Jonathan or Elsa and Max’s mother or David, Lois’s ex-husband, insert themselves to add other dimensions to Norman and Lois’s story. But what I think I like and what saves this book a bit is its deviation from typical romance, namely in the development of the characters.
If you’ve enjoyed the SmartyPants Romance books, if you enjoy Penny Reid’s Green Valley, if you’re a fan of atypical people, you will like Ann Whynot’s Checking You Out. It may, however, take you a bit to move through Lois and Norman’s story.
Ann Whynot’s sophomore SmartyPants Romance tome, Checking You Out, returns us to the world of Magecraft. What I love about this story and its predecessor, Dewey Belong Together, is its insistence on highlighting nerdy, gender-fluid characters.
In this story, we meet Lois, the best friend of her FMC in DBT, Max, and a single mother who has moved to Green Valley, hoping to create a better life for her daughter away from the busyness of New York City. In Dewey Belong Together, we meet Norman, the best friend and business partner of that book’s MMC. Jonathan and Norman are also relocating to Green Valley, so that Jonathan and Max can be together. Interestingly enough, Norman and Lois have a past. As teens, they met through a gaming platform and fell in love. They made plans to move to New York City together; however, Norman broke off their relationship. It’s been a decade since they’ve talked or seen each other, and they reconnect in Green Valley, to find out that they are still madly attracted to each other. Norman and Lois waste no time in falling for each other. However, Lois’s life is complicated by an ex-husband/father of her child who lives in France. Additionally, Norman isn’t sure about taking on the role of parenting Lois’s precious daughter. When a tragedy causes her life to hang in the balance, their priorities right themselves, and they find their eventual happy ending.
It’s rather easy to like Lois and Norman. They are likable characters, albeit they are rather mild. Both of them have suffered past traumas, which cause them to both cling to each other AND push each other away. My struggle with Checking You Out is the almost inauspicious nature of their journey. There are clearly plot points that raise the tenor of their coupling, moments when you fear for their happy ending. Yet, for the most part, Whynot lays out their story so staidly that I found myself losing interest in them from time to time. Thankfully, the ancillary characters of Max and Jonathan or Elsa and Max’s mother or David, Lois’s ex-husband, insert themselves to add other dimensions to Norman and Lois’s story. But what I think I like and what saves this book a bit is its deviation from typical romance, namely in the development of the characters.
If you’ve enjoyed the SmartyPants Romance books, if you enjoy Penny Reid’s Green Valley, if you’re a fan of atypical people, you will like Ann Whynot’s Checking You Out. It may, however, take you a bit to move through Lois and Norman’s story.
April 26, 2022
Overall Grade: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Ann Whynot’s sophomore SmartyPants Romance tome, Checking You Out, returns us to the world of Magecraft. What I love about this story and its predecessor, Dewey Belong Together, is its insistence on highlighting nerdy, gender-fluid characters.
In this story, we meet Lois, the best friend of her FMC in DBT, Max, and a single mother who has moved to Green Valley, hoping to create a better life for her daughter away from the busyness of New York City. In Dewey Belong Together, we meet Norman, the best friend and business partner of that book’s MMC. Jonathan and Norman are also relocating to Green Valley, so that Jonathan and Max can be together. Interestingly enough, Norman and Lois have a past. As teens, they met through a gaming platform and fell in love. They made plans to move to New York City together; however, Norman broke off their relationship. It’s been a decade since they’ve talked or seen each other, and they reconnect in Green Valley, to find out that they are still madly attracted to each other. Norman and Lois waste no time in falling for each other. However, Lois’s life is complicated by an ex-husband/father of her child who lives in France. Additionally, Norman isn’t sure about taking on the role of parenting Lois’s precious daughter. When a tragedy causes her life to hang in the balance, their priorities right themselves, and they find their eventual happy ending.
It’s rather easy to like Lois and Norman. They are likable characters, albeit they are rather mild. Both of them have suffered past traumas, which cause them to both cling to each other AND push each other away. My struggle with Checking You Out is the almost inauspicious nature of their journey. There are clearly plot points that raise the tenor of their coupling, moments when you fear for their happy ending. Yet, for the most part, Whynot lays out their story so staidly that I found myself losing interest in them from time to time. Thankfully, the ancillary characters of Max and Jonathan or Elsa and Max’s mother or David, Lois’s ex-husband, insert themselves to add other dimensions to Norman and Lois’s story. But what I think I like and what saves this book a bit is its deviation from typical romance, namely in the development of the characters.
If you’ve enjoyed the SmartyPants Romance books, if you enjoy Penny Reid’s Green Valley, if you’re a fan of atypical people, you will like Ann Whynot’s Checking You Out. It may, however, take you a bit to move through Lois and Norman’s story.
Ann Whynot’s sophomore SmartyPants Romance tome, Checking You Out, returns us to the world of Magecraft. What I love about this story and its predecessor, Dewey Belong Together, is its insistence on highlighting nerdy, gender-fluid characters.
In this story, we meet Lois, the best friend of her FMC in DBT, Max, and a single mother who has moved to Green Valley, hoping to create a better life for her daughter away from the busyness of New York City. In Dewey Belong Together, we meet Norman, the best friend and business partner of that book’s MMC. Jonathan and Norman are also relocating to Green Valley, so that Jonathan and Max can be together. Interestingly enough, Norman and Lois have a past. As teens, they met through a gaming platform and fell in love. They made plans to move to New York City together; however, Norman broke off their relationship. It’s been a decade since they’ve talked or seen each other, and they reconnect in Green Valley, to find out that they are still madly attracted to each other. Norman and Lois waste no time in falling for each other. However, Lois’s life is complicated by an ex-husband/father of her child who lives in France. Additionally, Norman isn’t sure about taking on the role of parenting Lois’s precious daughter. When a tragedy causes her life to hang in the balance, their priorities right themselves, and they find their eventual happy ending.
It’s rather easy to like Lois and Norman. They are likable characters, albeit they are rather mild. Both of them have suffered past traumas, which cause them to both cling to each other AND push each other away. My struggle with Checking You Out is the almost inauspicious nature of their journey. There are clearly plot points that raise the tenor of their coupling, moments when you fear for their happy ending. Yet, for the most part, Whynot lays out their story so staidly that I found myself losing interest in them from time to time. Thankfully, the ancillary characters of Max and Jonathan or Elsa and Max’s mother or David, Lois’s ex-husband, insert themselves to add other dimensions to Norman and Lois’s story. But what I think I like and what saves this book a bit is its deviation from typical romance, namely in the development of the characters.
If you’ve enjoyed the SmartyPants Romance books, if you enjoy Penny Reid’s Green Valley, if you’re a fan of atypical people, you will like Ann Whynot’s Checking You Out. It may, however, take you a bit to move through Lois and Norman’s story.
April 21, 2022
***5 Stars***
This was a fun read. I was a bit concerned at the start, because I did go “Whoa… that’s a doozy of an intro” but I thoroughly enjoyed watching Lois and Norman re-connect, with a bit of help from their friends, and get the second chance they both deserve.
Lois and Norman. I honestly loved both of them. They’ve been through their own struggles and while they may not have everything in their lives figured out, or even have their lives running smoothly, they’re doing the best to get there. Their journey to their HEA was a lot of fun to experience. The connection, and chemistry, were there from the start and it was fun to see them navigate their past, present ~ with some help from their friends ~ and realize that they could have a future together, if only they tried.
As I said, this was a fun read. It had a great balance of humor and heart and just the right amount of drama to keep things interesting. Things weren’t as intense as they were in Dewey Belong Together, but there are topics that are a part of the story that may, or may not be issues for some readers, but they are handled well and are necessary to the characters growth. As far as the supporting cast of characters go, it was great to catch up with Jonathan and Max and see their relationship evolve. Rose was a rock star, as was Eileen, and Elsa was too cute. It was, as always, to have Winston sightings. All in all, this is a great addition to the Pennyverse and I’m looking forward to see what’s coming up next!
~ Copy provided by SmartyPants Romance & voluntarily reviewed ~
This was a fun read. I was a bit concerned at the start, because I did go “Whoa… that’s a doozy of an intro” but I thoroughly enjoyed watching Lois and Norman re-connect, with a bit of help from their friends, and get the second chance they both deserve.
Lois and Norman. I honestly loved both of them. They’ve been through their own struggles and while they may not have everything in their lives figured out, or even have their lives running smoothly, they’re doing the best to get there. Their journey to their HEA was a lot of fun to experience. The connection, and chemistry, were there from the start and it was fun to see them navigate their past, present ~ with some help from their friends ~ and realize that they could have a future together, if only they tried.
As I said, this was a fun read. It had a great balance of humor and heart and just the right amount of drama to keep things interesting. Things weren’t as intense as they were in Dewey Belong Together, but there are topics that are a part of the story that may, or may not be issues for some readers, but they are handled well and are necessary to the characters growth. As far as the supporting cast of characters go, it was great to catch up with Jonathan and Max and see their relationship evolve. Rose was a rock star, as was Eileen, and Elsa was too cute. It was, as always, to have Winston sightings. All in all, this is a great addition to the Pennyverse and I’m looking forward to see what’s coming up next!
~ Copy provided by SmartyPants Romance & voluntarily reviewed ~
Want to read
April 21, 2022★★NOW LIVE IN KU★★
"Ann wowed me with her debut novel ‘Dewey Belong Together’. She has now solidified my love for her writing with ‘Checking You Out’!!” –Laura, Goodreads Reviewer
Happy Release Day to Ann Whynot, Author! ‘Checking You Out’ is now ALIVE in #KindleUnlimited. You can snatch up your copy there and return to the quirky awesome halls of the Green Valley Library.
★★Grab your copy TODAY!★★
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3s5NnaR
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/3JHkCY0
Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/3BtU6P4
Amazon AU: https://amzn.to/3uXA9yI
★ ★ BLURB ★ ★
Lois Washington is at the end of her rope. Struggling as a single mother in an apartment the size of a closet is not the New York City adventure she dreamed of in her starry-eyed youth. When her job goes on the chopping block, she is ready for a major life change. Joining her best friend in Tennessee to become the newest employee at the Green Valley Public Library isn’t exactly where she thought life would take her, but she feels up for the challenge. Only this relocation comes with more than she bargained for.
Norman Grant has had a string of online dating disasters back in Florida. Dealing with chronic pain, he’s concluded that finding a woman who is understanding about his war wounds just isn’t in the cards. That is, until he becomes quite taken with the single mother who’s also a new arrival in Green Valley. The catch? Things are not quite what they seem.
When the past and present collide, Norman and Lois must face painful reminders from their youth. Now, at twenty-seven, Norman’s about to find out just how deeply the wounds he left behind cut.
‘Checking You Out’ is a full-length contemporary romance and can be read as a standalone. Book #10 in the Green Valley Library series, Green Valley Chronicles, Penny Reid Book Universe
March 31, 2022
Ann wowed me with her debut novel ‘Dewey Belong Together’. She has now solidified my love for her writing with ‘Checking You Out’!! She has a way of writing a story that has the perfect amount of humor and heart.
I loved how both Norman & Lois had to learn how to be friends again and oh-so-much more. They’re both so strong, and watching them learn to rely on someone new is heartwarming. Getting to visit with Max, Jonathan, & Rose again was so great! Plus going back to the Green Valley Public Library was so wonderful.
On a side note—I relate to Norman on dating a single parent. It’s so crazy how fast you can learn to love your partner’s child. Learning how to balance your relationship and being a parent is not for the weak of heart. I think Norman will forever hold a special place in my own heart.
I loved how both Norman & Lois had to learn how to be friends again and oh-so-much more. They’re both so strong, and watching them learn to rely on someone new is heartwarming. Getting to visit with Max, Jonathan, & Rose again was so great! Plus going back to the Green Valley Public Library was so wonderful.
On a side note—I relate to Norman on dating a single parent. It’s so crazy how fast you can learn to love your partner’s child. Learning how to balance your relationship and being a parent is not for the weak of heart. I think Norman will forever hold a special place in my own heart.
April 8, 2022
Sweet, heartfelt, emotional.
Lois and Norman's second-chance at a first-chance has a little enemies-to-lovers vibe, great humor, and intimacy. Not steamy/spicy intimacy (only some smooching for this story) but the way Lois and Norman both open up and share all of their emotions and vulnerabilities and are wholly accepting of each other. Checking You Out is full of heart, humor, and wonderful characters. In my opinion─even though it's marked as a stand-alone─it would be best enjoyed after reading Dewey Belong Together (Green Valley Library, #7) since integral characters in Checking You Out are introduced in that story.
Most of the story is centered around Christmas/New Year, so that was my own peccadillo─not a very spring-time read─but it would make a good addition to your seasonal/holiday TBR.
3.5 stars
Advanced reader copy received in exchange for an honest review from Smartypants Romance.
Lois and Norman's second-chance at a first-chance has a little enemies-to-lovers vibe, great humor, and intimacy. Not steamy/spicy intimacy (only some smooching for this story) but the way Lois and Norman both open up and share all of their emotions and vulnerabilities and are wholly accepting of each other. Checking You Out is full of heart, humor, and wonderful characters. In my opinion─even though it's marked as a stand-alone─it would be best enjoyed after reading Dewey Belong Together (Green Valley Library, #7) since integral characters in Checking You Out are introduced in that story.
Most of the story is centered around Christmas/New Year, so that was my own peccadillo─not a very spring-time read─but it would make a good addition to your seasonal/holiday TBR.
3.5 stars
Advanced reader copy received in exchange for an honest review from Smartypants Romance.
April 19, 2022
Format - E ARC
Rating- ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️💫 (rounded up)
Spice- 🔥 (Fade to Black)
Series- Green Valley Library #10
Troupes- Second chance romance, Single Parent, Small Town, Gamer Nerds
CW- Chronic Pain, child custody battles
I was so excited to go back to Green Valley to visit with our favorite gaming nerds! In this new story we finally get to meet Lois, and her adorable tiny human, Masie. We also get to know Norm the trouble maker. This is a sweet story about missed connections and taking on the challenges life throws at you and the choices you make along the way.
Norm and Lois are both new to Green Valley and looking to make a fresh start, but unbeknownst to them, they already know each other. Lois recognizes Norm right off, and things get awkward. Lois is mad he doesn’t recognize her, but doesn’t want to tell him. Norm doesn’t know why he can’t charm the lovely Lois like he did with her tiny human, cause he really likes her and wants to get to know her more! Soon the secret is out and the sparks really start to fly!
Ann Whynot has a unique and succinct writing style and with the duel POV gives her characters voices that are individual to them. I love Ann’s characters they are relatable and nerdy and people I want to know.
I enjoyed the heck out of this book, but I did miss the open door smexy scene! This is my only
critique! There was such a great slow burn but then Bam door closed 😱! Ann, why not? (Ha I did a thing!)
Y’all are gonna love going back to Green Valley with Norm and Lois and her tiny human!
Rating- ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️💫 (rounded up)
Spice- 🔥 (Fade to Black)
Series- Green Valley Library #10
Troupes- Second chance romance, Single Parent, Small Town, Gamer Nerds
CW- Chronic Pain, child custody battles
I was so excited to go back to Green Valley to visit with our favorite gaming nerds! In this new story we finally get to meet Lois, and her adorable tiny human, Masie. We also get to know Norm the trouble maker. This is a sweet story about missed connections and taking on the challenges life throws at you and the choices you make along the way.
Norm and Lois are both new to Green Valley and looking to make a fresh start, but unbeknownst to them, they already know each other. Lois recognizes Norm right off, and things get awkward. Lois is mad he doesn’t recognize her, but doesn’t want to tell him. Norm doesn’t know why he can’t charm the lovely Lois like he did with her tiny human, cause he really likes her and wants to get to know her more! Soon the secret is out and the sparks really start to fly!
Ann Whynot has a unique and succinct writing style and with the duel POV gives her characters voices that are individual to them. I love Ann’s characters they are relatable and nerdy and people I want to know.
I enjoyed the heck out of this book, but I did miss the open door smexy scene! This is my only
critique! There was such a great slow burn but then Bam door closed 😱! Ann, why not? (Ha I did a thing!)
Y’all are gonna love going back to Green Valley with Norm and Lois and her tiny human!
May 10, 2022
I enjoyed many things about this book, but in the end the writing style just did not work for me. I needed more growth from the characters
May 9, 2022
French & English reviews
3,5 stars more or less ...
Une romance qui m'a laissée ... Plutôt indifférente en fait =S
Je ne sais pas si c'était le timing qui était mauvais ou si l'univers gamer n'est pas trop ma tasse de thé mais si j'étais plutôt enthousiaste pour cette romance de la seconde chance, j'ai rapidement perdu tout intérêt pour les personnages !
Cela manquait de dramas et j'ai trouvé que toute la tension entre eux se résolvait bien trop facilement : ils se rencontrent, elle est un peu en colère et bim tout est pardonné à moins de la moitié du livre ! Et après ça ... Et ben disons que je n'étais plus vraiment intéressée par l'histoire =S
Bref, une romance trop fade pour moi ...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
3.5 stars more or less ...
A romance that left me ... Rather indifferent in fact =S
I don't know if it was the timing that was bad or if the gamer universe isn't really my cup of tea but if I was rather enthusiastic for this second chance romance, I quickly lost interest in the characters !
It lacked drama and I found that all the tension between them was resolved far too easily : they meet, she's a little angry and bim all is forgiven in less than half the book ! And after that ... Well let's just say I wasn't really interested in the story anymore =S
In short, a romance too bland for me ...
3,5 stars more or less ...
Une romance qui m'a laissée ... Plutôt indifférente en fait =S
Je ne sais pas si c'était le timing qui était mauvais ou si l'univers gamer n'est pas trop ma tasse de thé mais si j'étais plutôt enthousiaste pour cette romance de la seconde chance, j'ai rapidement perdu tout intérêt pour les personnages !
Cela manquait de dramas et j'ai trouvé que toute la tension entre eux se résolvait bien trop facilement : ils se rencontrent, elle est un peu en colère et bim tout est pardonné à moins de la moitié du livre ! Et après ça ... Et ben disons que je n'étais plus vraiment intéressée par l'histoire =S
Bref, une romance trop fade pour moi ...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
3.5 stars more or less ...
A romance that left me ... Rather indifferent in fact =S
I don't know if it was the timing that was bad or if the gamer universe isn't really my cup of tea but if I was rather enthusiastic for this second chance romance, I quickly lost interest in the characters !
It lacked drama and I found that all the tension between them was resolved far too easily : they meet, she's a little angry and bim all is forgiven in less than half the book ! And after that ... Well let's just say I wasn't really interested in the story anymore =S
In short, a romance too bland for me ...
April 8, 2022
I am so extremely pleased with Norman's story!
In this story Norman is a veteran living with disability that limits his mobility and he is also a sexy gamer, business owner, and devoted friend. I adored him in Dewey Belong together and am so happy to see him get his happy ending. He and his best friend Jonathan move to Green Valley shortly after Lois moves there with her daughter to start over. These characters had a history that only they knew about and when it all comes out I loved how the characters handled it. Their courtship was sweet and lovely and the story itself was very low angst. I was rooting for both characters from the start and love how the author got us to that HEA.
I highly recommend this book for fans of second-chance, small-town, single-parent, and inclusive romance. Ann Whynot tells authentic stories about real people who struggle financially, emotionally, with disability, or otherwise and she does it well!
In this story Norman is a veteran living with disability that limits his mobility and he is also a sexy gamer, business owner, and devoted friend. I adored him in Dewey Belong together and am so happy to see him get his happy ending. He and his best friend Jonathan move to Green Valley shortly after Lois moves there with her daughter to start over. These characters had a history that only they knew about and when it all comes out I loved how the characters handled it. Their courtship was sweet and lovely and the story itself was very low angst. I was rooting for both characters from the start and love how the author got us to that HEA.
I highly recommend this book for fans of second-chance, small-town, single-parent, and inclusive romance. Ann Whynot tells authentic stories about real people who struggle financially, emotionally, with disability, or otherwise and she does it well!
April 7, 2022
This was a sweet easy going quick read. I enjoyed learning about our new characters, Norman and Lois. Both of them are going through their own battles and learning how to progress on their personal journeys. The vulnerability that Norman expressed and how Lois reciprocated was amazing, all of us know how hard opening up is and the fact that they felt comfortable being open with each other really emphasized the bond that they grew. I enjoyed the representation presented in the book, it is always important to develop an updated perspective and to gain awareness.
My favorite part was the way Whynot depicted physical disability. There is a certain scene in the book where we really get to see the severity of how bad his disability can get….it is intense but is my favorite part in the book! The way Lois reacts (with respect and maturity towards Norman) and how they deal with the situation ends up moving their relationship forward.
Thank you for the arc (I especially loved a certain reference to my favorite musical).
3.75 stars
My favorite part was the way Whynot depicted physical disability. There is a certain scene in the book where we really get to see the severity of how bad his disability can get….it is intense but is my favorite part in the book! The way Lois reacts (with respect and maturity towards Norman) and how they deal with the situation ends up moving their relationship forward.
Thank you for the arc (I especially loved a certain reference to my favorite musical).
3.75 stars
May 11, 2022
I liked this better than previous Ann book in Green Valley Library. I personally like second chance romance especially with adorable kid set in small town. If you enjoy this tropes give a try.
April 24, 2022
2.75 Stars
Another gaming romance like the previous book. I think I’m too old to appreciate this type of storyline. These characters initially meet in high school while playing a video game together and they would meet in a separate chat room? The start as friends then start making plans for the future. Mind you, they never meet in person. Just exchange a photo with one another. Not sure I would consider this a “second chance romance”
They meet 10 years later. The heroine a single mom. The hero a wounded vet.
The romance was sweet, but G rated. Unfortunately. It dragged at times and I became uninterested. Happy for now (HFN) ending that hints of an HEA.
I think this would be more suitable for a high school reader interested in gaming and computers.
Another gaming romance like the previous book. I think I’m too old to appreciate this type of storyline. These characters initially meet in high school while playing a video game together and they would meet in a separate chat room? The start as friends then start making plans for the future. Mind you, they never meet in person. Just exchange a photo with one another. Not sure I would consider this a “second chance romance”
They meet 10 years later. The heroine a single mom. The hero a wounded vet.
The romance was sweet, but G rated. Unfortunately. It dragged at times and I became uninterested. Happy for now (HFN) ending that hints of an HEA.
I think this would be more suitable for a high school reader interested in gaming and computers.
April 22, 2022
Ann Whynot is fairly new to the publishing world, and you wouldn't be able to tell. Her writing is brilliant, and she brings so much to her stories. Her characters are so well developed, and they have real issues that are fully explored and central to the storylines. The relationships between all of the characters - not just the main couples, but all of the friendships, and the family dynamics, are beautiful. Ann is such a spectacular author and I can't wait to see more from her, whether it's in the Smartypants Romance universe or elsewhere.
This book, the second of Ann's contributions to the Green Valley Public Library series, follows her characters introduced in her first (Dewey Belong Together), Maxine and Jonathan, and his best friend Norman, as the boys move to Green Valley to settle into a new life. Little do they know that Maxine's other long-time, online friend has also just moved to town, Lois. Lois was another gaming friend from years gone by, who actually knew the boys before she knew Maxine, and had a history with Norman.
The story centers around Lois and Norman re-learning each other and seeing if they could pick up from where everything ended 10 years earlier, when he abruptly changed their plans and joined the military, where he was injured, causing her to continue their plans on her own, but those plans changed when she got pregnant in the middle of college, got married, had the baby, dropped out, divorced when her husband came out, and struggled to make it as a single mother (until Max came in with the offer of Green Valley and a lot of assistance). As two completely different people a decade later, it was basically starting from scratch, with a child in the picture, and custody issues, but both of them wanting and also not wanting the relationship to work out at the same time.
There were some crazy twists along the way in this one that I totally did not see, and no way I could have expected them - but they were perfect inclusions and I don't think this could have happened any other possible way than exactly how it did. Everything fell into place exactly at the right time, the right speed and felt completely natural.
I love Ann's writing, her as a person (such a sweetheart!), and I eagerly await more from her! I also really appreciate her Author's Note at the end saying how personal this story was to her, and her note on facebook right around publication with even more personal touches on how even more of the characters relate to her own life - these personal notes make her and this reading experience even more special.
I received an advance copy from Ann and the team at SPRU, and this is my honest feedback. I really appreciate it, thanks again!
★★NOW LIVE★★
From @smartypantsromance... CHECKING YOU OUT, a second-chance small town romance from @ann.whynot , is LIVE in #KindleUnlimited!
Grab your copy today!
https://smartypantsromance.com/books/...
This book, the second of Ann's contributions to the Green Valley Public Library series, follows her characters introduced in her first (Dewey Belong Together), Maxine and Jonathan, and his best friend Norman, as the boys move to Green Valley to settle into a new life. Little do they know that Maxine's other long-time, online friend has also just moved to town, Lois. Lois was another gaming friend from years gone by, who actually knew the boys before she knew Maxine, and had a history with Norman.
The story centers around Lois and Norman re-learning each other and seeing if they could pick up from where everything ended 10 years earlier, when he abruptly changed their plans and joined the military, where he was injured, causing her to continue their plans on her own, but those plans changed when she got pregnant in the middle of college, got married, had the baby, dropped out, divorced when her husband came out, and struggled to make it as a single mother (until Max came in with the offer of Green Valley and a lot of assistance). As two completely different people a decade later, it was basically starting from scratch, with a child in the picture, and custody issues, but both of them wanting and also not wanting the relationship to work out at the same time.
There were some crazy twists along the way in this one that I totally did not see, and no way I could have expected them - but they were perfect inclusions and I don't think this could have happened any other possible way than exactly how it did. Everything fell into place exactly at the right time, the right speed and felt completely natural.
I love Ann's writing, her as a person (such a sweetheart!), and I eagerly await more from her! I also really appreciate her Author's Note at the end saying how personal this story was to her, and her note on facebook right around publication with even more personal touches on how even more of the characters relate to her own life - these personal notes make her and this reading experience even more special.
I received an advance copy from Ann and the team at SPRU, and this is my honest feedback. I really appreciate it, thanks again!
★★NOW LIVE★★
From @smartypantsromance... CHECKING YOU OUT, a second-chance small town romance from @ann.whynot , is LIVE in #KindleUnlimited!
Grab your copy today!
https://smartypantsromance.com/books/...
April 21, 2022
If you love a small town, second chance, sweet romance then look no further than Ann Whynot’s Checking You Out. This delightful novel is in the Smartypants Romance universe created by Penny Reid and it is a lovely edition. Whynot’s writing is conversational and accessible, quickly drawing the reader into the characters and world. This novel is well paced with a nice build up of chemistry between the hero and heroine that leads into a sweetly sensual romance. This is my first novel by Ann Whynot and I am definitely excited to continue exploring her work.
This romance is between Lois and Norman, who were long distance gaming buddies who had a budding romance in their teens with the plans to move to New York together for college and work. But when life tears they apart they never get the chance to truly mean in person until a handful of years later in a small town in Tennessee. Lois is now a single mother to a brilliant 6 year old daughter and working as a custodian in the library and Norman runs a computer repair and building business with his best friend, and he has just relocated to the same town Lois lives.
I really enjoy that Ann Whynot has created strong secondary characters that are friends and found family for the hero and heroine. I always love when there is a nice layer of support for both characters because it creates a healthy outlook on things. Lois is such a fun and strong character, she loves her daughter to the moon and back and will always put her first. Norman is also delightful, warm hearted and understands that being with Lois means being with her daughter. I think Ann Whynot makes a really smart decision to set this during the Christmas season and having Lois’s daughter be on vacation with her father and his partner for the majority of this novel. This gives the chance for a romantic relationship and understanding to develop between Lois and Norman. Their relationship is sweet and open, I love that they make the decision to be open and honest with each other and I love that they take time to fully move into a physical relationship because this creates a foundation for them to build a life together.
Definitely a delightful must read in the smarty pants world. I love getting a more fleshed out town the surrounds Penny Reid’s Winston Brothers and look forward to the next. Ann Whynot is definitely an author to check out if you have not had the chance to read her before!
Thank you so much to Smartypants Romance for an eARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
This romance is between Lois and Norman, who were long distance gaming buddies who had a budding romance in their teens with the plans to move to New York together for college and work. But when life tears they apart they never get the chance to truly mean in person until a handful of years later in a small town in Tennessee. Lois is now a single mother to a brilliant 6 year old daughter and working as a custodian in the library and Norman runs a computer repair and building business with his best friend, and he has just relocated to the same town Lois lives.
I really enjoy that Ann Whynot has created strong secondary characters that are friends and found family for the hero and heroine. I always love when there is a nice layer of support for both characters because it creates a healthy outlook on things. Lois is such a fun and strong character, she loves her daughter to the moon and back and will always put her first. Norman is also delightful, warm hearted and understands that being with Lois means being with her daughter. I think Ann Whynot makes a really smart decision to set this during the Christmas season and having Lois’s daughter be on vacation with her father and his partner for the majority of this novel. This gives the chance for a romantic relationship and understanding to develop between Lois and Norman. Their relationship is sweet and open, I love that they make the decision to be open and honest with each other and I love that they take time to fully move into a physical relationship because this creates a foundation for them to build a life together.
Definitely a delightful must read in the smarty pants world. I love getting a more fleshed out town the surrounds Penny Reid’s Winston Brothers and look forward to the next. Ann Whynot is definitely an author to check out if you have not had the chance to read her before!
Thank you so much to Smartypants Romance for an eARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 31, 2022
I'll be honest, I had to convince myself to read this book. I wasn't crazy about the previous installment (it was okay, but I didn't particularly enjoy it), but I still wanted to give Ms. Whynot another shot, as I've found I can't read only one book by an author and lay down judgement without trying a second book.
I'm glad I read this one. I liked it better than the first book. I don't know if I liked it enough to read it a second time, but I'm glad I read it once.
I liked Lois and Norman. I was happy to see Lois forgive him fairly early so we could just focus on their relationship development. I appreciated that Norman's chronic pain didn't become a third character in the story (unlike the first book). I was 100% ok with him having it and I was happy to see how he knew his limits but also wanted to push himself to be an independent as possible. And when he over pushed himself and had an episode, I was glad to see that was contained to that one chapter and not drug out throughout the second half of the book. I liked how Lois reacted to his pain episode and was glad to see her so supportive and loving.
There's a couple of bare minimum sex scenes. They're very light and fade out with very minor details. There's a few uses of curse words, but not many.
There was one thing that kept nagging me throughout the book. At first I couldn't put my finger on it, but about halfway through I realized what it was. A lot of the internal dialog sounded like the way my mother writes out text messages 😂 it was kinda funny.
If you enjoyed the first book in the series, you'll probably enjoy this one too.
I'm glad I read this one. I liked it better than the first book. I don't know if I liked it enough to read it a second time, but I'm glad I read it once.
I liked Lois and Norman. I was happy to see Lois forgive him fairly early so we could just focus on their relationship development. I appreciated that Norman's chronic pain didn't become a third character in the story (unlike the first book). I was 100% ok with him having it and I was happy to see how he knew his limits but also wanted to push himself to be an independent as possible. And when he over pushed himself and had an episode, I was glad to see that was contained to that one chapter and not drug out throughout the second half of the book. I liked how Lois reacted to his pain episode and was glad to see her so supportive and loving.
There's a couple of bare minimum sex scenes. They're very light and fade out with very minor details. There's a few uses of curse words, but not many.
There was one thing that kept nagging me throughout the book. At first I couldn't put my finger on it, but about halfway through I realized what it was. A lot of the internal dialog sounded like the way my mother writes out text messages 😂 it was kinda funny.
If you enjoyed the first book in the series, you'll probably enjoy this one too.
May 3, 2022
Now in KU!
This is the second Smartpants Romance book by Ann Whynot and if you read her first, Dewey We Belong Together, you have met our characters. Norman is Jonathan's best friend and business partner. He has decided to relocate to Green Valley with Jonathan. Coincidentally, Max’s best friend, Lois, has recently relocated to our favorite small town in Tennessee. Life has not gone to Lois’ plan and she is hoping for a fresh start with her six year old daughter. However, she has kept her trepidation about meeting Norman a secret.
Lois and Norman have a past that included love and hopes of a future together. Norman abruptly broke her heart, while he fulfilled family expectations of joining the military. His time in service left him with chronic pain that led to addiction. He has worked hard to fight his addiction and a promising future. But with any chronic condition there will be flairs. Lois followed through with some of the plans that she had made with Norm as a young adult. But she has found herself a divorced, single mom at a young age and with an interesting co-parenting situation.
I was happy to see this story flow naturally from the end of Ann’s last book. We know all the characters a bit already but get to learn more. I was glad that Lois and Norm’s past was not a huge stumbling block for them and they handled their situations with maturity. Norm was such a sweetheart that was always doing all he could for others. Lois balanced him out well and was the support that he needed. Elsa, Lois’ daughter, was cute and so smart. The situation with her father was different but believable for Lois' character. This was a second chance romance that felt as if it was still the first chance. And the group of characters as a whole are geeky and lovable. There are little easter eggs in there for fans of games, movies, and shows but nothing that will be important if you miss it. I love seeing authors grow and hope we see more from Ann Whynot soon.
This is the second Smartpants Romance book by Ann Whynot and if you read her first, Dewey We Belong Together, you have met our characters. Norman is Jonathan's best friend and business partner. He has decided to relocate to Green Valley with Jonathan. Coincidentally, Max’s best friend, Lois, has recently relocated to our favorite small town in Tennessee. Life has not gone to Lois’ plan and she is hoping for a fresh start with her six year old daughter. However, she has kept her trepidation about meeting Norman a secret.
Lois and Norman have a past that included love and hopes of a future together. Norman abruptly broke her heart, while he fulfilled family expectations of joining the military. His time in service left him with chronic pain that led to addiction. He has worked hard to fight his addiction and a promising future. But with any chronic condition there will be flairs. Lois followed through with some of the plans that she had made with Norm as a young adult. But she has found herself a divorced, single mom at a young age and with an interesting co-parenting situation.
I was happy to see this story flow naturally from the end of Ann’s last book. We know all the characters a bit already but get to learn more. I was glad that Lois and Norm’s past was not a huge stumbling block for them and they handled their situations with maturity. Norm was such a sweetheart that was always doing all he could for others. Lois balanced him out well and was the support that he needed. Elsa, Lois’ daughter, was cute and so smart. The situation with her father was different but believable for Lois' character. This was a second chance romance that felt as if it was still the first chance. And the group of characters as a whole are geeky and lovable. There are little easter eggs in there for fans of games, movies, and shows but nothing that will be important if you miss it. I love seeing authors grow and hope we see more from Ann Whynot soon.
April 20, 2022
What a delightful read! We were introduced to Norman in Dewey Belong Together. The lovable nerd/gaming geek who lives in Florida and must deal with his injuries sustained during his service that bring him chronic pain. The injuries also bring him emotional pain as he feels that once he meets someone they run away, not willing to persevere with his disabilities. He decides to make the move with his friend to Tennessee and a fresh start for their computer building business.
Lois has spent a lifetime learning to depend on herself. Her Mormor (grandmother) was her only support and she lost her years ago. She chased her dreams to New York City and college and the hopes of meeting her on-line friend but alas even he ducked out on her and she was once again alone.
Now she has a beautiful daughter who fills her life with love but her job is about to be eliminated, and New York City is too much for her financially. Her road is now taking her to Tennessee and a job with her best friend. It's not the most glamorous job but it will sustain her and her sweet little girl.
When the paths of Norman and Lois intersect, memories of the past, good and bad, are brought to the surface and the two must deal with them in order to move forward.
I hope we will see more of Ann Whynot and her characters in Green Valley!
Lois has spent a lifetime learning to depend on herself. Her Mormor (grandmother) was her only support and she lost her years ago. She chased her dreams to New York City and college and the hopes of meeting her on-line friend but alas even he ducked out on her and she was once again alone.
Now she has a beautiful daughter who fills her life with love but her job is about to be eliminated, and New York City is too much for her financially. Her road is now taking her to Tennessee and a job with her best friend. It's not the most glamorous job but it will sustain her and her sweet little girl.
When the paths of Norman and Lois intersect, memories of the past, good and bad, are brought to the surface and the two must deal with them in order to move forward.
I hope we will see more of Ann Whynot and her characters in Green Valley!
May 1, 2022
Such a realistic love story.
Norman and Lois met on a gaming site playing with a group of people. They had personal conversations, too. They were going to move to New York together after high school graduation. Then she gets an email telling her that he is joining the military where he was injured badly. It is now ten years later and she lives in Green Valley with the help of another gamer, Max. She has a little girl, but is divorced. In comes Norman with Max’s boyfriend. They are moving their computer business to Green Valley, so his friend and partner can be with Max. And there is begins. Norman doesn’t remember her because she looks so different, but Lois remembers him. It’s not a great start, but through this whole story everything is revealed, but it’s a journey to get where they want to be. This is a great love story. I didn’t want it to end.
Norman and Lois met on a gaming site playing with a group of people. They had personal conversations, too. They were going to move to New York together after high school graduation. Then she gets an email telling her that he is joining the military where he was injured badly. It is now ten years later and she lives in Green Valley with the help of another gamer, Max. She has a little girl, but is divorced. In comes Norman with Max’s boyfriend. They are moving their computer business to Green Valley, so his friend and partner can be with Max. And there is begins. Norman doesn’t remember her because she looks so different, but Lois remembers him. It’s not a great start, but through this whole story everything is revealed, but it’s a journey to get where they want to be. This is a great love story. I didn’t want it to end.
September 27, 2022
My book club was very divided over this one, but I found it delightful. The others found it to be meh or even worse.
What I loved is that it's low drama. I think this is partly because I read an angsty dark BDSM trilogy right before this and welcomed the change of pace. Also, my little heart just appreciates a straight up happy story sometimes.
I will admit the writing isn't strong but I'm willing to overlook that because it made me feel good! I also greatly appreciated the chronic pain representation in a character who is a military veteran.
Everything comes easy for these characters (during the novel) and that isn't realistic at all but it was a nice escape read.
What I loved is that it's low drama. I think this is partly because I read an angsty dark BDSM trilogy right before this and welcomed the change of pace. Also, my little heart just appreciates a straight up happy story sometimes.
I will admit the writing isn't strong but I'm willing to overlook that because it made me feel good! I also greatly appreciated the chronic pain representation in a character who is a military veteran.
Everything comes easy for these characters (during the novel) and that isn't realistic at all but it was a nice escape read.
April 21, 2022
I love Green Valley and the ladies from the library. This book is a wonderful addition to the series. Ann’s writing is so beautiful, heartwarming and real. She takes great care with her characters when writing about the many challenges they are facing.
Lois and Norman are transplants to Green Valley. They have a past and it’s about to come full circle with a lot of anger, hurt and need for forgiveness. These two characters are a bit broken but in different ways. Sometimes invisible scars are just as painful as visible scars.
This book is inspirational as it shows how two people can help one another overcome fear, regret and loss.
And I must mention Max, Jonathan and sweet Rose - they are amazing characters and great support for both Lois and Norman.
Congratulations, Ann this book is so touching and wonderful.
I received a complimentary copy and I am leaving my honest review.
April 19, 2022
CHECKING YOU OUT (GREEN VALLEY LIBRARY BOOK TEN)
Kindle Unlimited: [X]YES [ ]NO
Stand-alone: [X]YES [ ]NO
Author: Ann Whynot
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spiciness rating: 🌶/5
POV: Dual, first person
Main Couple: Lois & Norman
Favorite Character: Norman
Tropes: Contemporary small town romance; second chance; single mother; ex-military
Review:
When I met Norman in Johnathan’s and Max’s books I knew he had potential to have a book for himself and I couldn’t not read it.
This book was sweet and Ann always brings to her stories important themes, in this one we get to know a bit more how a person with chronic pain lives. Lois had a very lonely life, always being abandoned by the men she loved when she most needed their support. I’m glad she finally found a home and a family in Green Valley.
***I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review***
Kindle Unlimited: [X]YES [ ]NO
Stand-alone: [X]YES [ ]NO
Author: Ann Whynot
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spiciness rating: 🌶/5
POV: Dual, first person
Main Couple: Lois & Norman
Favorite Character: Norman
Tropes: Contemporary small town romance; second chance; single mother; ex-military
Review:
When I met Norman in Johnathan’s and Max’s books I knew he had potential to have a book for himself and I couldn’t not read it.
This book was sweet and Ann always brings to her stories important themes, in this one we get to know a bit more how a person with chronic pain lives. Lois had a very lonely life, always being abandoned by the men she loved when she most needed their support. I’m glad she finally found a home and a family in Green Valley.
***I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review***
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